Ok, probably a bit mad to be backing a 9 year old, but I have had an each way bet on ARCH VILLAIN (40/1, 4 places). Despite his age, he is fairly lightly raced and has had only 4 runs in last two seasons, that included a 4th place in the Ebor last season so it shows he still has ability. Bit unlucky in this race 2 years ago when slipping badly to lose all chance and finished last, but had run well on 3 previous visits here including a win over c&d, admittedly that win was over 5 years ago. It’s a big ask to win this but hopefully he can run well. Others I considered were last year’s winner Soldier In Action who could be well handicapped now but that win was on very different going so that is a bit of question mark, and Pacify, who has a good record on good to firm. Each way bet (4 places) on Arch Villain, and small combi forecasts and tricasts with Soldier in Action and Pacify.
More place money, Arch Villain finishes 4th. I hope either Nicklaus or Chai Chai or both can place in 4:50 as I have them in each way trebles too, 25/1 & 40/1 placed so far.